Empowering ASEAN Citizens: Google and ASEAN Foundation Launch Digital Literacy Initiative

• 31 March 2024
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Google.org and the ASEAN Foundation have joined forces to introduce the ASEAN Digital Literacy Program (ADLP), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at elevating digital literacy among citizens across the ASEAN region, equipping them with essential skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively, according to pattayamail published on 22 March 2024.

The unveiling of the ASEAN Digital Literacy Program took place in Bangkok on 20 March marking a significant milestone in fostering digital awareness within ASEAN member states. The program’s fourth mission focused on unveiling research findings on the digital divide prevalent across the 10 ASEAN nations.

Working collaboratively with the ASEAN Youth Advisory Group from member countries, the initiative involved tailoring digital literacy campaigns and content to suit diverse cultural contexts. Additionally, the training of 2,000 youth as proficient digital trainers underscores the program’s commitment to grassroots empowerment.

Marija Ralic, Lead of Google.org Asia Pacific, commended the ASEAN Foundation’s dedication in spearheading the ASEAN Digital Literacy Program under the visionary leadership of Dr Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation. She lauded the program’s remarkable success in surpassing its target, reaching 190,000 individuals and igniting a digital literacy movement across the region.

Meanwhile, HE Amb. M.I. Derry Aman, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Indonesia to ASEAN and Chair of the Board of Trustees of ASEAN Foundation, emphasised the pivotal role of digital literacy in navigating the complexities of the digital age. He underscored the urgency of equipping citizens with critical thinking skills to combat misinformation and fake news, highlighting the imperative of collective collaboration in fostering digital resilience across ASEAN.

Research conducted across ASEAN member states identified a common challenge: a lack of critical thinking skills among digital media consumers, leading to susceptibility to misinformation. This underscores the importance of initiatives like the ADLP in nurturing information competency and critical thinking skills among diverse demographics, including educators, students, and vulnerable groups.

​ Dr Piti Srisangnam underscored the pivotal role of digital literacy in propelling ASEAN towards economic prosperity. He emphasised the urgency of enhancing information competency and critical thinking skills, particularly in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), to unlock ASEAN’s full economic potential.

Even in developed countries like Singapore, where the literacy rate soars as high as 97%, individuals remain vulnerable to online scams, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced digital literacy initiatives and critical thinking education across all age groups and societal sectors.

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